Bicycle rear-view camera keeps beady eye on drivers

The latest high-tech safety device aimed at cyclists is a tiny rear-view camera linked to a handlebar-mounted 3.5-inch LCD video screen. The Hindsight 30 is aimed at racing cyclists who want to monitor fellow competitors and commuter cyclists who need to keep an eye on motorists.

In a poll last year, cyclists revealed motorists overtaking too close as their number-one gripe.

The digital camera is mounted to the seat post and incorporates an LED rear light. The system is powered by a re-chargeable lithium-ion battery.

When the Hindsight 30 goes on sale later this year it will have front and rear LED running lights will be built into the camera and screen for an expected price of £155. It will be followed by the Hindsight 50, which is to incorporate GPS and the ability to automatically record a collision.

Why do cyclists need onboard cameras?

The fact that motor insurance companies tell their customers to never admit liability in the event of a collision (even if they know they are responsible) is morally questionable and anyone who has been through the rigmarole of trying to claim damages following a collision without the benefit of witness statements will know that it can become an impossible task.

The law in mainland Europe quite sensibly places the legal responsibility in personal injury cases involving car drivers and cyclists on the motorist – unless negligence on the part of the cyclist can be proved),

A spokesperson for the Environmental transport Association (ETA) said: “Until British law catches up catches up with the rest of Europe and we get driver liability, we may have to rely on handlebar-mounted cameras to get fair treatment in the event of a collision.”

Unfortunately the iphone does not support external cameras so no cycle cam app exists, but other ‘action cams’ well suited to being used in this way. The Chilli Technology Action Cam Max costs around £40 to buy on Amazon and records up to one hour’s footage on the memory card included in the price. Options include windscreen, handlebar or helmet mountings.

Cycle insurance can help

Cycle insurance cannot offer complete protection agianst uninsured drivers or unscrupulous insurance companies, but cover from the ETA includes personal accident up to £20,000 at no additional cost. It also includes new-for-old replacement if your bike is stolen, cover for accidental damage (race events included), third party insurance (in the case of an accident you may need to seek compensation or even deal with a claim by someone else), and personal accident cover. From 33p a week